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3 Ways to Protect Your Online Accounts Against Hacking

Online security is a big deal, but few people take an active approach to minimizing their risks online. In 2016, millions of user accounts were hacked and instances of identity theft have increased. All indications are that 2017 will easily break last year’s record. In this video we’ll share three ways to help protect your online accounts against hacking.

In 2016, millions of people had their accounts and identities stolen online. You could be next. While there is no way to prevent hackers from trying to get your information, there are steps you can take to protect yourself online. Here are three quick and simple ways you can protect your online accounts against hacking:

1) Use Caution On Public WIFI Connections

This should go without saying, but it’s something many people don’t even think about. When we are away from home we often look for a public WIFI hotspot to get online.
The problem is that not all WIFI hotspots are created equally. Hackers have begun setting up poisoned WIFI connections that allow the people who control them to spy on anyone using their connection.
Unless you know and trust the source of your connection, think twice about using it. If you do use a public connection, be mindful of logging onto any of your important accounts. It’s possible that you’re being monitored.

2) Use Two-Factor Authentication

Two-Factor Authentication is a feature that more companies are offering as a service to their users. Instead of just using a password to login, Two-Factor Authentication uses a second method to verify your identity. Many services use SMS passcodes or apps like Google Authenticator to verify your identity after entering your password. While it’s not bullet-proof, it is much more secure that using a password alone and only takes a few seconds longer to log in.

3) Don’t Use The Same Password On Important Accounts

According to the latest surveys, nearly fifty percent of people use the same password across multiple websites. The problem with that is if a hacker guesses your password for one site, they have the password for your other accounts as well.
The sad truth is hacking and other online threats increase every year. However, there are a number of practical steps you can take that will make it a lot less likely you become a victim.

If you use these three tips, you may significantly reduce your chances of being hacked or having your identity stolen. For more ideas on how to improve your online security, give our team a call.